#None #Aviation #Sedona #Michelle Smith #Untethered Aviation

Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Pilots

On September 19, 2026, the aviation world celebrates International Girls in Aviation Day, an event aimed at inspiring girls of all ages to consider a career in aviation. This year marks the 12th anniversary of this significant day, which encourages young females to dream big, take to the skies, and earn their wings. One inspiring figure who embodies this message is Michelle Smith, co-founder of Untethered Aviation and a pilot herself, who didn’t start her journey in aviation until the age of 49.

Michelle, with her extensive background in professional education along with her role as a former head of school, realized her lifelong dream of flying and co-founded an aviation school. Through this platform, she aims to help people—especially women—of all ages to earn their pilot licenses and embrace the world of aviation. "It's about breaking barriers and showing that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your passion," she states.

Opportunities in Aviation

During this special day, Michelle emphasizes the importance of introducing girls aged 8 to 18 to aviation careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers earn a median annual wage of roughly $226,000, and commercial pilots earn about $122,000 annually. For girls contemplating a career in piloting, the path typically involves earning a bachelor's degree and obtaining necessary flight training.

Tips for Aspiring Female Pilots

To make flying an accessible dream, Michelle shares several tips for girls interested in aviation:

1. Take a Test Flight: Girls can experience what it feels like to be a pilot through a discovery flight, offered by most aviation schools. It’s a remarkable way to engage firsthand with aviation.

2. Tour Local Flight Schools: Research nearby flight schools, take tours, and ask questions about the different programs available. Understanding what each school offers can help in decision-making.

3. Join Local Groups: Many regions have flying clubs or groups, especially those focused on youth involvement. Spending time with peers interested in aviation can foster a sense of community and provide valuable resources.

4. Utilize Flight Simulators: Engage with local flight simulators to experience simulated flying scenarios, or explore at-home programs for preliminary training.

5. Focus on Relevant Academics: Pursue courses in subjects like physics and math that can complement an aviation path. Consulting with academic advisors is a smart move to align educational goals with career aspirations.

6. Log Flight Hours: While aspiring pilots must be 16 to fly solo and 17 to secure a license, there’s no age restriction on logging flight hours. This means young enthusiasts can accumulate experience early on.

The Joy of Flying

"Flying is freedom, and anyone who wants it can achieve it," Michelle proclaims, advocating that it's never too late or too early to dive into aviation. Her passion for teaching and helping others discover the joys of flight is evident in the programs offered by Untethered Aviation, which include scenic flights, introductory lessons, and special experience packages. The beautiful surroundings of Sedona, Arizona, serve as the backdrop for their flight school, enhancing the experience for all students.

Untethered Aviation is committed to making flying an attainable dream for everyone, offering not only professional pilot training but also unique flight experiences for adventure-seekers and travelers alike. With Michelle’s guidance, she hopes to pave the way for more young women to consider careers in aviation, creating a diverse and robust future for the industry.

To commemorate International Girls in Aviation Day and to explore the opportunities available in aviation, visit Michelle’s flight school at Untethered Aviation. Together, we can inspire the next generation of female pilots to look up and aim high.